The last farm bill, passed in 2008, is expiring. If Congress doesn't pass a new bill by Jan. 1 or extend key provisions, certain factors kick in that could send milk prices to $6 a gallon.

Some dairy producers worry that shoppers would switch to exported dairy products.

Agriculture industry leaders hope that new farm legislation can be attached to any fiscal package the White House and Congress reach this month. Major tax increases and spending cuts are scheduled to go into effect if no deal is reached by Jan. 1.

Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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